Asier Villalibre scored two goals as Athletic Bilbao secured a 2-0 win against Alaves, advancing to the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey. The striker scored with a strong left-footed shot in the 28th minute and added another with a diving header around an hour into the game.
Read More: Lionel Messi wins Best FIFA Men’s Player award
Athletic Bilbao dominated most of the game. Goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala made crucial saves in the second half to deny Alaves striker Samu. Villalibre’s second goal sealed the win for Athletic and dashed any hopes for the visitors.
In another match, Sevilla broke their league struggles with a morale-boosting 3-1 win against Getafe. Sergio Ramos took advantage of a goalkeeping error to score in the eighth minute. Jaime Mata leveled the score with a clever lob 15 minutes later. Isaac Romero then scored two quick goals in the 48th and 55th minute, securing a significant win for coach Quique Sanchez Flores against a team he has coached three times.
Read More: Vinicius Jr’s hat-trick helps Madrid lift Spanish Supercup
Mallorca advanced to the last eight with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Tenerife in extra time. Cyle Larin scored with a right-footed shot in the final minute, capitalizing on a knockdown. Tenerife defenders missed opportunities to clear the ball, leaving them frustrated.
Upcoming fixtures include Osasuna vs. Real Sociedad, Girona vs. Rayo Vallecano, and Valencia vs. Celta Vigo on Wednesday. Thursday features a Madrid derby between Atletico and Real Madrid, and FC Barcelona visits third-tier Unionistas de Salamanca.
